When I discovered that my employer, Raven Industries, allows their employees to take time from their busy schedules each week to volunteer in the community, I jumped at the opportunity. I began by reaching out to my local school district and was referred to the Oasis Intergenerational Tutoring program. Shortly after, I received training and became an Oasis Tutor.

During my first year, I fell in love with the program. Stepping into the role of a tutor allows me to see life through the eyes of a child. I love listening to a child read a page in a book as she learns a new word, and I love seeing the smiles on children's faces when they achieve.

At one of the Oasis tutor training sessions, the school district coordinator mentioned that donations were needed to help support the tutoring program.  That made me think. Raven Industries is a great company.  They encourage volunteering and they donate to other organizations, so why not Oasis?

I contacted the human resources department to ask about how to request a donation.  I also contacted the Oasis development staff and they helped me write a letter to submit. In the end, my efforts paid off! Oasis was awarded a $1,000 gift from Raven Industries. It was a very easy process and I am glad I asked. I want to see Oasis grow to all states.  The tutoring program is such a great resource for schools.

For anyone wondering whether or not their company will support programs with which their employees are involved, stop wondering and ask.  You will be surprised how companies want to support their employees and the community!

And if you are interested in becoming a tutor, here's where you can find out more.